Stranger Things captivated audiences with its nostalgic tech and the second the series aired many took to the internet to seek out the various gadgets and gizmos that the TV series brought to our attention.
Iconic items like walkie-talkies and classic video games have seen a surge in value, reflecting their cultural significance as Stranger Things catapulted them back into the limelight once again.
With the production gathering a mix of gadgets and technology set around 1983 (the year in which the show is set) many of these pieces were added for realism within the show along with roles within the storyline.
Collectors are paying top dollar for these vintage treasures, with some items fetching thousands at auctions.
The guys over at Geonode have done a deep dive into these Stranger Things tech items along with their values.
Let’s dive in shall we?
Camcorder at $188 — A Portal to Another Realm
Used by Bob Newby the JVC GR-C1 camcorder was originally launched in the mid-1980s and was used subsequently by Jonathan and Will.
Providing a means of supernatural evidence capture in the series a vintage model of this camcorder can be found for approximately $188 on various marketplaces making it a nice collectable item for enthusiasts and fans of the show.
The camcorder may also be familiar to fans of Back to the Future as Marty McFly uses it in the movie!
- Current Value: Approx $188
- Key Features: Compact design, integrated VHS tape recorder
- Significance in Stranger Things: Captures supernatural incidents, aids in character discovery
Electrode Cap at $800 — Unlocking Psychic Potentials
In the realm of Hawkins Lab and the Nina Project, the electrode cap stands out as more than a medical device. Fitted on Eleven’s scalp, this cap, which costs about $800 on platforms like Alibaba, is instrumental in amplifying and tracking her psychic abilities. The caps, equipped with numerous sensors, are crucial for the scientific team to monitor bio-electrical activity, facilitating deeper exploration into the psychic realms.
- Current Value: Approx $800
- Key Features: Multiple sensors for comprehensive brain activity monitoring
- Application in Stranger Things: Critical for experiments on psychic abilities
Metal Detector at $3,400 — Ensuring Security
When security is paramount, tools like metal detectors come to the forefront. In Stranger Things, the character Murray Bauman employs a metal detector, priced at around $949, to ensure that Dr. Alexei does not pose a threat. This high-end device symbolizes the intersection of paranoia and protection during the Cold War era depicted in the series.
- Current Value: Approx $3,400
- Essential Features: High sensitivity, user-friendly interface
- Role in Stranger Stories: Security checks, enemy verification
Josh Gordon, a technology expert at Geonode, highlights the importance of these technologies beyond their nostalgic value. He notes:
“While these devices reflect the technological landscapes of their times, they also underscore the innovative ways technology can be harnessed in storytelling. They bridge the gap between mere utility and narrative propulsion.”
Walkman WM8 Retro Cassette Player
Whilst this wasn’t in the original site findings I wanted to give a special mention to Max’s WM-8 cassette player which is linked to a variety of iconic Stranger Things scenes and set the precedent for that incredible song revival of ‘Running up that Hill’ by Kate Bush.
These tech pieces from Stranger Things not only help drive the plot but also offer a glimpse into the technological trends of the 1980s. Their current market values reflect both their utility and the growing interest in retro technology among collectors and tech enthusiasts. These technologies continue to fascinate and inspire, whether for practical use or as collector items.
I can fully relate to this article after buying a Panasonic tape recorder the second the first Saw movie was released and can see how Stranger Things has ignited our passion for retro tech.
What one item from a TV series or film would you most like to own?
